Apply

Access the PDF Application >>

Application Deadline: 

We have a rolling application process, and accept applications year round. However, in order to gaurantee consideration for Fall 2012, please submit your application no later than May 31, 2012.

Application Materials:

• Completed/signed application form
• Non-refundable $50 application fee
• Complete transcripts from all post-secondary colleges and universities attended. This includes part-time study.
• Applicants who hold degrees or have earned credits from non-U.S. institutions must have a course by course….[As in catalogue]
• TOEFL score report if English is not the applicant’s first language
• GRE scores
• Three letters of reference (at least two of which are academic references).
• Statement of purpose
• A curriculum vitae (optional; forward as email to graduate@loyola.edu)
• A writing sample that emphasizes a student’s theological interests and research (optional; forward as email to graduate@loyola.edu)

Tips for Preparing Your Application

The application process requires an investment of time and resources, but careful planning can help you create an application that stands apart from the competition. The following sections provide tips to help you prepare your application.

Before you Apply

• Perform a self-assessment, particularly with the goal of identifying your major interests, and work on achieving focus without being overly narrow.
• Ask for advice from faculty members about schools that have programs compatible with your interests.
• Use the Web or other materials to research program offerings, faculty, program rank, selectivity, funding practices, and demographics (size, location, etc.).
• Compile a list of programs to which you intend to apply, then contact the programs for additional information.

Tips for Acquiring the Best Possible Letters of Recommendation

• Select and contact potential recommenders early.
• Ascertain whether the person you selected would be able to write you a strong letter of recommendation (this implies that they have time and can comment favorably about your potential for graduate work).
• Prompt your letter writers with points you would like them to address.
• Provide letter writers with all necessary forms and instructions.
• Provide your C.V. and a draft of your statement of intent.
• Provide deadlines for each program.
• Follow up to ensure that letters were mailed or submitted electronically.

Statement of Intent

The statement of intent should capture your intellectual development and interests. It should generally be 1–3 double-spaced pages in length. Once you have drafted your statement, ask a few faculty members review it. A trip to the writing center is also beneficial as you work to polish the finished product. This is your opportunity to present a strong argument about why you would be an excellent student in the program, so be sure that you are completely satisfied with the document you submit.

• Establish your desire for the degree and how you envision using your training and knowledge in the future.
• Articulate why you have selected your specific program, i.e. how your interest coincides with those of the faculty.
• Identify the strengths that you would bring to the program (e.g., credentials, experience).
• Explain any unusual situations but refrain from providing excuses.
• Be sure to include your name and prospective program on each page of the statement—even though you submit the document electronically.